Union Station Homeless Services Prepares for Thanksgiving
For over five decades, Union Station Homeless Services (USHS) has been a beacon of hope in the community, especially during Thanksgiving. Their Dinner in the Park event has become a cherished tradition, providing warm meals to anyone in need.
Understanding the Challenges
As Thanksgiving approaches, rising grocery prices and reduced funding for SNAP are putting significant pressure on families across the region. Many individuals and families who depend on Dinner in the Park for their holiday meals face an uncertain future this year.
Anticipated Needs This Year
CEO Katie Hill highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating, "Last year, we served over 6,000 meals, which was a tremendous accomplishment. However, we expect the demand to be even higher this year." The challenges are not just faced by community members but also by the organizations that traditionally support them.
Increasing the Meal Count
In response to the growing need, USHS has raised the number of turkeys required for their Thanksgiving meals from 750 to 975, increasing their target to serve an estimated 8,000 meals over a three-day period. This adjustment reflects the commitment of USHS to ensure that no families are left without a meal.
The Importance of Community Support
Katie Hill further emphasized the organization's desire to avoid turning away families who look forward to this holiday celebration, saying, "The last thing we want to do is turn people away. If we do not secure the necessary food donations, we may have to reduce the scope of the event, which is distressing for all involved."
How to Help
The community is encouraged to support the Thanksgiving event by donating or participating in the Turkey Drive, scheduled for two days from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Donations will be collected at the USHS Adult Center. This year’s Turkey Drive will take place on November 17 and 18. Engaging in this effort can directly help those in need, making a positive impact during the holiday season.
Turkey Drive Details
Dates: November 17 & 18
Time: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Location: USHS Adult Center, 412 S. Raymond Blvd.
Online Donations
For those unable to attend in person, donations can be made online to further support the mission of Union Station Homeless Services. Every contribution helps provide meals, support services, and care to vulnerable families.
Contact Information
If you have questions or would like more information about how to get involved, contact Tian Martinez at Union Station Homeless Services by calling 6269774350 or reaching out via email at tian.martinez@ushs.org.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dinner in the Park?
Dinner in the Park is an annual event hosted by Union Station Homeless Services that provides warm meals to those in need during Thanksgiving.
How can I donate?
You can donate turkeys or other food items at the Turkey Drive on November 17 and 18, or make online donations to support the event.
Where can I find more information?
Additional information can be found on the Union Station Homeless Services website or by contacting them directly.
What are the dates for the Turkey Drive?
The Turkey Drive will take place on November 17 and 18, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
How many meals does USHS aim to serve?
This year, USHS aims to serve approximately 8,000 meals over three days during Thanksgiving.
